Greenpeace Press Release October 20, 2005

Please consider precious eco-system in Henoko
-Prior to 2 plus 2 talks, Greenpeace demand US Ambassador,-

Greenpeace today sent a letter to the U.S. ambassador to Japan, outlining concerns about an American proposal for a US Marine Corps airfield to be constructed near Henoko, Okinawa, Japan. The international environmental organization has asked Amb. J. Thomas Schieffer for a meeting to discuss the US proposal.

In the letter, Greenpeace emphasized the critical role that Henoko Bay plays in maintaining the last remaining dugong, in Japanese waters, as well as other species. The dugong enjoys special cultural heritage protection under Japanese law.

"Greenpeace hopes Ambassador Schieffer understands the strength of public opposition to the American proposal" said Mizuki Takana, ocean campaigner of Greenpeace Japan. "The governments can sign an agreement, but the people have proven that they can prevent construction from actually going ahead".

Okinawa activists occupied 4 drilling platforms daily for nearly a year before the towers where removed in the beginning of September. The occupations prevented any drilling from taking place.

Later this month senior representatives of the governments will meet in Washington at "2 Plus 2" to try to agree on a plan for the base. Prime Minister Koizuma and President Bush will meet next month in Kyoto.

The Greenpeace flagship Rainbow Warrior visited Henoko in March this year to join the protest against the airbase. The ship delivered about 6,000 ribbons to protect the Dugong in Henoko to the local people from all over the world. Greenpeace has been sending volunteers to support the Henoko activists.

The letter to the U.S. ambassador (PDFfile : 7KB)